Controlling Network Repository Function (NRF) during discovery within a Fifth Generation (5G) network is described. In an example, the NRF can receive, from a Network Function (NF) consumer associated with the 5G network, a request for information associated with a NF producer type. The NRF can receive, from one or more NF producers associated with the NF producer type, indications of the NF producers and the NRF can generate a list of NF producers based at least in part on the indications. The NRF can select, based at least in part on a configurable parameter, a subset of the list of NF producers and send, responsive to receiving the request, the subset of the list of NF producers to the NF consumer.
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1. A method, implemented at a Network Repository Function (NRF) associated with a Fifth Generation (5G) network, the method comprising: receiving, from a Network Function (NF) consumer associated with the 5G network, a discovery request for information associated with a NF producer type; receiving, from NF producers associated with the NF producer type, indications of the NF producers; generating a list of NF producers based at least in part on the indications; selecting, based at least in part on a configurable parameter, a subset of the list of NF producers; and sending, responsive to receiving the discovery request, the subset of the list of NF producers to the NF consumer, wherein the configurable parameter is configured based at least in part on a number of service types available for the NF producer type and a redundancy threshold.
This invention relates to network function discovery in 5G networks, specifically improving the efficiency and reliability of service discovery by the Network Repository Function (NRF). The NRF acts as a central registry for network functions (NFs) in 5G, allowing NF consumers to discover available NF producers. A key challenge is managing the volume of NF producers and ensuring redundancy while optimizing discovery responses. The method involves the NRF receiving a discovery request from an NF consumer for a specific NF producer type. The NRF then collects indications from all NF producers of that type. It generates a comprehensive list of these producers and filters it based on a configurable parameter. This parameter considers the number of service types available for the NF producer type and a redundancy threshold, ensuring the response includes sufficient redundancy without overwhelming the consumer. The NRF then sends a subset of the filtered list to the NF consumer. This approach balances performance and reliability by dynamically adjusting the discovery response based on network conditions and service availability. The solution enhances scalability and efficiency in 5G network function discovery.
2. The method as claim 1 recites, further comprising: associating the subset of the list of NF producers with a timer associated with a period of time after which the list of NF producers expires; and sending the timer with the subset of the list of NF producers to the NF consumer.
This invention relates to network function (NF) service discovery and management in telecommunications systems, particularly addressing the challenge of efficiently distributing and maintaining updated lists of available NF producers to NF consumers. The method involves dynamically generating and transmitting subsets of NF producer lists to NF consumers, ensuring that only relevant NF producers are provided based on specific criteria such as location, service type, or consumer requirements. The invention further enhances this process by associating a timer with each subset of the NF producer list, which defines a period after which the list expires. This timer is sent alongside the subset to the NF consumer, enabling the consumer to recognize when the list is no longer valid and prompting a request for an updated list. This mechanism ensures that NF consumers always have access to current and accurate information about available NF producers, improving service reliability and reducing unnecessary signaling overhead in the network. The timer-based expiration system helps maintain synchronization between NF producers and consumers, preventing the use of outdated or invalid NF producer data.
3. The method as claim 2 recites, further comprising receiving, from the NF consumer, another discovery request for information associated with information associated with the NF producer type after a lapse of the period of time.
This invention relates to network function (NF) service discovery in a telecommunications system, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing and retrieving NF service information in a dynamic environment. The method involves a network repository function (NRF) that stores and provides access to NF service profiles, which describe the capabilities and attributes of network functions (NFs) in the system. The NRF receives a discovery request from an NF consumer, which is a network function seeking to locate and interact with another NF (the NF producer) that matches specific criteria. The NRF processes this request by searching its stored NF service profiles to identify one or more NF producers that meet the requested criteria. The NRF then provides the NF consumer with information about the matching NF producers, enabling the consumer to establish communication with them. The method also includes handling subsequent discovery requests from the same NF consumer for the same NF producer type after a predefined period, ensuring that the NF consumer can periodically refresh its knowledge of available NF producers. This periodic refresh mechanism helps maintain up-to-date information about NF services, improving the reliability and efficiency of NF service discovery in the network. The invention enhances the scalability and flexibility of NF service management in telecommunications systems by automating the discovery process and ensuring timely updates.
4. The method as claim 1 recites, wherein the configurable parameter is configured for the NF producer type.
A system and method for managing network functions (NFs) in a telecommunications network involves dynamically configuring parameters for NF producers, which are entities responsible for generating or managing NFs. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating and optimizing NF resources in a network environment where different types of NF producers may have varying requirements or capabilities. The method includes determining a configurable parameter for an NF producer based on its type, such as its role, capacity, or operational constraints. This parameter is then used to adjust the behavior of the NF producer, ensuring optimal performance and resource utilization. The system may also involve monitoring the NF producer's performance and dynamically updating the configurable parameter in response to changes in network conditions or workload demands. By tailoring the configuration to the specific type of NF producer, the system improves efficiency, scalability, and reliability in NF management. This approach is particularly useful in 5G and other advanced network architectures where dynamic resource allocation is critical.
5. The method as claim 1 recites, wherein the indications are received from the NF producers associated with the NF producer type in association with registration of the NF producers with the NRF.
This invention relates to network function (NF) service discovery and registration in a 5G or similar telecommunications network. The problem addressed is efficiently managing and retrieving network function service information in a dynamic, distributed environment where network functions (NFs) register and deregister frequently. The solution involves a Network Repository Function (NRF) that stores and provides access to NF service profiles, enabling other network functions to discover and communicate with available services. The method involves receiving indications from NF producers, which are network functions that provide services. These indications are associated with a specific NF producer type and are received during the registration process when NF producers register with the NRF. The NRF maintains a repository of these service profiles, allowing other network functions to query and discover available services based on their type. This ensures that service consumers can efficiently locate and interact with the required network functions without manual configuration or centralized management. The system supports dynamic updates, allowing the NRF to reflect changes in service availability as NF producers register, deregister, or modify their service offerings. The approach improves scalability and reliability in large, distributed networks by decentralizing service discovery while maintaining a centralized repository for efficient querying.
6. The method as claim 1 recites, wherein the indications are received from the NF producers associated with the NF producer type responsive to a request from the NRF.
This invention relates to network function (NF) service discovery in a 5G or similar telecommunications network. The problem addressed is efficiently locating and managing network functions (NFs) in a distributed environment where NFs are dynamically registered and deregistered. The solution involves a Network Repository Function (NRF) that maintains a repository of NF instances and their capabilities, allowing other network elements to discover and select appropriate NFs for service requests. The method involves receiving indications from NF producers, which are entities responsible for creating or managing NF instances. These indications are associated with a specific NF producer type and are sent in response to a request from the NRF. The NRF uses these indications to update its repository, ensuring it has accurate and up-to-date information about available NFs. This allows the NRF to efficiently respond to queries from other network elements seeking specific NF services, improving network reliability and performance. The NF producer type categorizes the source of the indications, such as a network operator, a third-party provider, or an automated system. The indications may include details like NF instance identifiers, supported services, and availability status. By processing these indications, the NRF can dynamically adjust its repository, ensuring that only valid and relevant NFs are listed. This mechanism supports scalability and flexibility in NF service discovery, accommodating changes in network topology and service requirements.
7. The method as claim 1 recites, wherein the NF consumer comprises at least one of an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), an Authentication Server Function (AUSF), a Network Exposure Function (NEF), a Policy Control Function (PCF), a Session Management Function (SMF), a Unified Data Management (UDM), a Charging Function (CHF), an Equipment Identity Register (EIR), a Location Management Function (LMF), or a Session Plane Function (SPF).
This invention relates to network function (NF) service discovery and selection in a 5G or similar next-generation mobile network architecture. The problem addressed is the efficient and secure identification and selection of network functions (NFs) by NF consumers, such as core network components, to ensure reliable communication and service delivery. The method involves a network repository function (NRF) that maintains a database of available NF instances and their capabilities. When an NF consumer, such as an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Authentication Server Function (AUSF), Network Exposure Function (NEF), Policy Control Function (PCF), Session Management Function (SMF), Unified Data Management (UDM), Charging Function (CHF), Equipment Identity Register (EIR), Location Management Function (LMF), or Session Plane Function (SPF), requires a specific NF service, it queries the NRF. The NRF then selects an appropriate NF instance based on criteria such as service requirements, network conditions, and load balancing. The selected NF instance is provided to the NF consumer, enabling seamless service interaction. This approach ensures that NF consumers can dynamically discover and select the most suitable NF instances, improving network efficiency, scalability, and reliability. The method supports various NF types, allowing flexible and optimized service provisioning in complex network environments.
8. The method as claim 1 recites, wherein a NF producer comprises at least one of a Session Management Function (SMF), a Unified Data Management (UDM), an Authentication Server Function (AUSF), a Short Message Service Function (SMSF), a Location Management Function (LMF), a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF), an Equipment Identity Register (EIR), a Unified Data Repository (UDR), a Charging Function (CHF), or a Network Exposure Function (NEF).
This invention relates to network function (NF) producers in a telecommunications system, specifically addressing the need for efficient and flexible management of network functions in a 5G or similar next-generation network architecture. The invention describes a method for implementing a network function producer, which is a component responsible for generating, managing, or providing network functions that support various services and operations within the network. The NF producer may include at least one of several key network functions: a Session Management Function (SMF) for managing IP address allocation and session management, a Unified Data Management (UDM) function for handling subscriber data, an Authentication Server Function (AUSF) for authenticating subscribers, a Short Message Service Function (SMSF) for SMS services, a Location Management Function (LMF) for tracking device locations, a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) for selecting appropriate network slices, an Equipment Identity Register (EIR) for device identity management, a Unified Data Repository (UDR) for storing network data, a Charging Function (CHF) for billing and charging, or a Network Exposure Function (NEF) for exposing network capabilities to external applications. The method ensures that these functions are properly integrated and operate efficiently within the network, improving service delivery and network performance. The invention aims to enhance the scalability, reliability, and interoperability of network functions in modern telecommunications systems.
9. A system comprising: one or more processors; one or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the system to perform operations comprising: receiving, from a Network Function (NF) consumer associated with a Fifth Generation (5G) network, a request for information associated with a NF producer type; receiving, from one or more NF producers associated with the NF producer type, indications of the NF producers; generating a list of NF producers based at least in part on the indications; selecting, based at least in part on a configurable parameter, a subset of the list of NF producers; associating the subset of the list of NF producers with a period of time after which the list of NF producers expires; and sending, responsive to receiving the request, the subset of the list of NF producers to the NF consumer, the sending including sending, along with the subset, an indicator of the period of time after which the list of NF producers expires, wherein the system receives another request for information associated with information associated with the NF producer type after a lapse of the period of time.
The system operates within the domain of 5G network management, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently discovering and managing network functions (NFs) in a dynamic 5G environment. In 5G networks, NF consumers (e.g., network applications or services) require access to NF producers (e.g., virtualized network functions) of a specific type to perform their operations. The system facilitates this by receiving a request from an NF consumer for information about NF producers of a particular type. It then collects indications of available NF producers from one or more NF producers associated with the requested type and generates a comprehensive list. To optimize performance and reduce overhead, the system selects a subset of this list based on a configurable parameter, such as load balancing or proximity. The subset is associated with an expiration period, after which the list becomes invalid. The system sends this subset, along with the expiration period, to the NF consumer. If the NF consumer submits another request after the expiration period, the system processes it as a new request, ensuring up-to-date information. This approach improves efficiency by reducing redundant queries and dynamically managing NF discovery in 5G networks.
10. The system as claim 9 recites, wherein the configurable parameter is configured for the NF producer type and based at least in part on a number of services associated with the NF producer type or a redundancy threshold.
The system relates to network function (NF) management in telecommunications, specifically optimizing the configuration of NF producers based on service demands and redundancy requirements. NF producers are virtualized network functions that provide services like authentication, billing, or routing in modern telecom architectures. A key challenge is dynamically adjusting NF producer configurations to balance performance, cost, and reliability, particularly in environments with varying service loads or strict availability requirements. The system includes a configuration module that adjusts a configurable parameter for an NF producer type based on the number of services associated with that type or a predefined redundancy threshold. For example, if an NF producer type supports multiple critical services, the system may increase its redundancy level to ensure high availability. Conversely, if the number of services is low, the system may reduce redundancy to optimize resource usage. The redundancy threshold defines the minimum number of instances required to maintain service continuity, ensuring that even if some instances fail, the remaining instances can handle the load. This dynamic adjustment helps telecom operators efficiently allocate resources while meeting service-level agreements. The system may also integrate with monitoring tools to continuously assess service demands and adjust configurations in real time.
11. The system as claim 9 recites, wherein the system comprises a Network Repository Function (NRF) and the request is associated with a discovery event.
A system for network service discovery in a telecommunications network addresses the challenge of efficiently locating and accessing network functions in a dynamic, distributed environment. The system includes a Network Repository Function (NRF) that maintains a repository of available network functions and their capabilities. When a network entity initiates a discovery event, such as querying for a specific service or function, the NRF processes the request to identify and return relevant network functions that match the criteria. The NRF ensures that the discovery process is optimized by leveraging its centralized knowledge of network function registrations, reducing latency and improving resource utilization. The system may also include additional components, such as a Network Function (NF) that registers its capabilities with the NRF, enabling the NRF to maintain an up-to-date catalog of available services. The discovery event may involve parameters such as service type, location, or performance requirements, allowing the NRF to filter and prioritize results based on the request context. This approach enhances scalability and reliability in modern telecommunications networks by streamlining service discovery and reducing the overhead associated with manual or decentralized lookups.
12. The system as claim 11 recites, wherein the indications are received from the NF producers associated with the NF producer type in association with registration of the NF producers with the NRF.
A system for managing network functions (NFs) in a telecommunications network, particularly in a 5G or cloud-native environment, addresses the challenge of efficiently discovering and registering NFs to ensure seamless service delivery. The system includes a Network Repository Function (NRF) that collects and stores indications from NF producers, which are entities responsible for deploying or managing NFs. These indications specify the capabilities, availability, and other attributes of the NFs. The NRF uses this information to facilitate NF discovery and selection by other network functions, such as Network Functions (NFs) consumers, which request services from the NF producers. The system ensures that NF producers register their NFs with the NRF, providing necessary metadata to enable dynamic and scalable service provisioning. The indications received during registration include details such as NF type, supported services, and operational status, allowing the NRF to maintain an up-to-date catalog of available NFs. This enables efficient service discovery and selection, improving network performance and reliability. The system supports automated registration and updates, reducing manual intervention and enhancing operational efficiency in modern telecommunications networks.
13. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause a Network Repository Function (NRF) of a Fifth Generation (5G) Network to perform operations comprising: receiving, from a Network Function (NF) consumer associated with the 5G network, a request for information associated with a NF producer type; receiving, from one or more NF producers associated with the NF producer type, indications of the NF producers; generating a list of NF producers based at least in part on the indications; selecting, based at least in part on a configurable parameter, a subset of the list of NF producers; associating the subset of the list of NF producers with a period of time after which the list of NF producers expires; and sending, responsive to receiving the request, the subset of the list of NF producers to the NF consumer, the sending including sending, along with the subset, an indicator of the period of time after which the list of NF producers expires, wherein the system receives another request for information associated with information associated with the NF producer type after a lapse of the period of time.
In the domain of 5G network management, a technical challenge exists in efficiently providing network function (NF) discovery and selection to NF consumers while managing resource usage and ensuring data freshness. The invention addresses this by implementing a Network Repository Function (NRF) that dynamically generates and distributes lists of NF producers to requesting NF consumers. The NRF receives a request from an NF consumer for information about a specific NF producer type. It then collects indications from available NF producers of that type and compiles them into a comprehensive list. Based on a configurable parameter, the NRF selects a subset of this list to send to the consumer. The subset is associated with an expiration period, after which the list becomes invalid. The NRF transmits this subset along with the expiration period to the consumer. If the consumer requests information again after the expiration period, the NRF processes the request anew, ensuring up-to-date data. This approach optimizes network resource usage by limiting the size of transmitted lists and ensures that consumers receive timely information by enforcing periodic refreshes. The configurable parameter allows for flexibility in balancing between data freshness and network load.
14. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable media as claim 13 recites, wherein the configurable parameter is configured for the NF producer type and based at least in part on a number of services associated with the NF producer type or a redundancy threshold.
This invention relates to network function (NF) management in telecommunications systems, specifically addressing the challenge of dynamically configuring parameters for NF producers to optimize service deployment and redundancy. The system involves a computer-readable medium storing instructions for managing NF producers, where a configurable parameter is adjusted based on the NF producer type and factors such as the number of services associated with that type or a predefined redundancy threshold. The parameter configuration ensures that NF producers are allocated resources and redundancy levels appropriate to their role in the network, improving efficiency and reliability. The system may also include a producer registry that tracks NF producers and their capabilities, allowing for dynamic updates to the configurable parameter as network conditions or service demands change. This approach enables adaptive management of NF producers, balancing performance and resource utilization while maintaining service availability. The invention is particularly useful in virtualized network environments where dynamic scaling and redundancy are critical.
15. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable media as claim 13 recites, wherein the indications are received from the NF producers associated with the NF producer type in association with registration of the NF producers with the NRF.
This invention relates to network function (NF) management in telecommunications systems, specifically improving the registration and discovery of NFs in a 5G or similar network architecture. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate tracking of NF instances and their capabilities to ensure proper service orchestration and network operation. The invention involves a system where a Network Repository Function (NRF) receives and stores indications of NF instances from NF producers during their registration process. These indications include details about the NF instances, such as their type, capabilities, and other relevant attributes. The NRF maintains this information in a structured database, allowing other network functions to query and discover available NF instances dynamically. The system ensures that the NRF has up-to-date information about registered NFs, enabling efficient service deployment and management. The invention further specifies that the indications are received from NF producers associated with a particular NF producer type during their registration with the NRF. This ensures that the NRF can categorize and manage NF instances based on their producer type, improving the accuracy and reliability of NF discovery and selection. The system may also support updates to the indications when NF instances are modified or deregistered, maintaining the integrity of the NF repository. This approach enhances network flexibility and scalability by providing a centralized and dynamic NF registry.
16. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable media as claim 13 recites, wherein: the NF consumer comprises at least one of an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), an Authentication Server Function (AUSF), a Network Exposure Function (NEF), a Policy Control Function (PCF), a Session Management Function (SMF), a Unified Data Management (UDM), a Charging Function (CHF), an Equipment Identity Register (EIR), a Location Management Function (LMF), or a Session Plane Function (SPF); the NF producers comprise at least one of a Session Management Function (SMF), a Unified Data Management (UDM), an Authentication Server Function (AUSF), a Short Message Service Function (SMSF), a Location Management Function (LMF), a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF), an Equipment Identity Register (EIR), a Unified Data Repository (UDR), a Charging Function (CHF), or a Network Exposure Function (NEF); and the NF consumer is different than the NF producers.
This invention relates to a system for managing network function (NF) interactions in a 5G core network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure communication between different network functions, particularly when one NF (the consumer) requests services or data from another NF (the producer). The system ensures that the consumer and producer are distinct entities, preventing conflicts or circular dependencies. The NF consumer can be any of several core network functions, including an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Authentication Server Function (AUSF), Network Exposure Function (NEF), Policy Control Function (PCF), Session Management Function (SMF), Unified Data Management (UDM), Charging Function (CHF), Equipment Identity Register (EIR), Location Management Function (LMF), or Session Plane Function (SPF). The NF producers similarly include functions like SMF, UDM, AUSF, Short Message Service Function (SMSF), LMF, Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF), EIR, Unified Data Repository (UDR), CHF, or NEF. The system ensures that the consumer and producer are different, avoiding direct communication loops and improving reliability. This structured approach enhances service delivery, data consistency, and security in 5G networks by clearly defining roles and interactions between network functions. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios requiring dynamic service requests, authentication, policy enforcement, or data retrieval across the 5G core.
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January 24, 2020
March 1, 2022
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